Read: Philippians 2:19-30
Many charitable institutions helping people with various needs depend on donations of unwanted clothing and supplies from those who have more than enough. In a way, it is good to give away things which are not used because they will benefit others. But it is a difficult thing to part with valuable things that we use every day.
When Paul was imprisoned in Rome, he was in need of encouragement and companionship of friends. Yet he sent two of his close associates to help the Christians in Philippi (Phil. 2:19-30). “I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be encouraged when I know your state. For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state” (Phil. 2:19-20). Again Paul says, “I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need” (Phil. 2:25). In fact, Paul gave valuable assets to others when he himself needed them most.
We need to know that whatever we feel as most valued in our lives today could be of immense benefit to someone we know. The valuable thing may be our time, encouragement, friendship, money, a listening ear, a helping hand. When we give away freely what the Lord has given to us, He is honoured and glorified, others are helped, and we are blessed by the Lord. Let us have a willing heart to freely give away things even if we may need them most. Let us have a sacrificial attitude to seek the good of others through our free giving.
